In an ongoing effort to enhance cooperation and collaboration between Denmark and Nigeria, His Excellency Sune Krogstrup, the Ambassador of Denmark to Nigeria, along with other high-ranking officials from the Danish government, conducted a follow-up visit to the esteemed Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola CON, on Tuesday. This visit marks a significant step in furthering discussions that began on October 6, 2023, when the Ambassador initially engaged with the Minister to explore opportunities for partnership and the utilization of the vast potential within the maritime sector of both nations.
Ambassador Krogstrup conveyed that the follow-up visit was driven by the Danish government’s strong commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Nigeria and establishing strategic partnerships that would bolster the maritime sectors of both countries. He emphasized Denmark’s standing as one of the world’s major port operators, underscoring the immense potential for cooperation in this crucial economic domain.
Minister Oyetola responded favorably to the proposal, expressing his ministry’s enthusiasm for partnering with the Danish government. He underscored Nigeria’s specific needs, including support in shipbuilding, ship repair, and fishing trawlers, among other areas. The Minister acknowledged Denmark’s prominent position in the maritime industry and indicated that this collaboration could yield significant benefits for both nations.
In another significant development, later in the day, Minister Oyetola welcomed a delegation from the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), led by Ambassador Jean Bakole, the organization’s Representative to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and Regional Director for UNIDO’s Nigeria Regional Office Hub. UNIDO reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Minister in the implementation of the programs and projects undertaken by the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy. Discussions also revolved around the Program for Country Partnership (PCP), highlighting the potential for sustainable growth in the sector.
In response to UNIDO’s overture, Minister Oyetola expressed his ministry’s readiness to collaborate with UNIDO in developing an industry policy that would facilitate the attainment of sustainable growth within the marine and blue economy sector. This partnership has the potential to catalyze economic development and strengthen Nigeria’s maritime capabilities.
These engagements with Denmark and UNIDO underscore Nigeria’s commitment to fostering international partnerships that will promote economic growth and development, particularly within the vital maritime and blue economy sectors.
